Jessica Cao, LLMSW

Jessica Cao, LLMSW
Pronouns she/her/hers
Job Title
Post MSW Fellow
Education:
University of Chicago
Professional Interests:
- International students
- First/second-generation immigrants
- Life adjustment and transition
- Acculturation or assimilation stress
- Mood disorders
- Religion and spirituality
- Sexual violence and trauma
- Alcohol and substance use
Approach to Therapy:
I value the multicultural and intersectionality framework, acknowledging that we each have unique experience and interpretation despite some shared labels of social identities. Based on this belief, I view therapy as a collaborative process to empower you in designing your own toolbox for wellness. I adopt a strength-based approach towards trauma-informed treatment, and believe in the power of love, compassion, and appreciation. In practice, I often draw therapy techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT and integrate religion and spirituality.
Approach to Wellness:
Sleep—the key to my energy. Water—I drink plenty of water every day. Food—I enjoy cooking and baking. Art—I do collage journaling daily. My approach to wellness also includes my regular visit with my therapist.
Supervisory Style:
I believe a supervisee is not only a professional in training but also an individual carrying multiple identities. My hope is that we can comprehensively understand our culture and be cautious of the power dynamics. Drawn from my multidisciplinary background and multicultural experience, my approach to supervision incorporates a culturally sensitive lens and a strength-based approach. I respect our next generation of social workers from where they are in the developmental stage and guarantee a safe environment to welcome honest conversations and offer collaborative support. My goal is that you have the autonomy to lead your professional development, and I am by your side to ensure ethical, achievable, and efficient practice.
Additional Language(s):
- Mandarin
- Cantonese